William Seward: “Their highest, their best praise, is your deep conviction of their merits, your affectionate gratitude for their labors…”

But, were the breath which now gives utterance to my feelings the last vital air I should draw, my expiring words to you and your children should be, Independence and Union forever!

In unfolding to my countrymen the principles by which I shall be governed, in the fulfilment of those duties, my first resort will be to that constitution which I shall swear, to the best of my ability, to preserve, protect, and defend.

As George Washington, I would do this man any kindness in my power--as President of the United States, I can do nothing.

From whatever cause war between other nations, whether foreign or domestic, has arisen, the unvarying law of the United States has been peace with both belligerents.